- 1). Budget how much money you will be able to spend on health insurance every month. Blue Cross Blue Shield offers a variety of different plans and price points in most areas. Check with your Blue Cross Blue Shield for your specific state to determine your different price options.
- 2). Compare the HMO against the PPO insurance plan. An HMO requires that nonemergency medical treatment go through your primary physician. Alternatively, a PPO allows you to go to any specialist within the Blue Cross Blue Shield network on your own and without a referral. The HMO is generally less expensive, but a PPO allows you more flexibility.
- 3). Evaluate the different features of each health plan. Make sure that the plan will cover your medical needs. For example, if you are female, you will want to check that the plan offers gynecological coverage. Just the same, if you engage in therapy, be sure that the plan you are choosing will cover the specific type of therapy that you need.
- 4). Check that the plan will cover any pre-existing conditions that you may have, such as diabetes, heart disease or lupus, for example. Numerous plans, including those offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield, do not cover pre-existing conditions unless the plan is acquired through your place of employment.
- 5). Project what prescriptions you need every month and if the plan you are choosing will cover those particular prescriptions. Some plans require prior authorization for various medications.
- 6). Fill out the Blue Cross Blue Shield form, which is usually available on the provider's website for each particular state. Along with your general information, such as name and address, you will need to provide your medical history.
- 7). Submit the enrollment form once it is completed.
- 8). Follow up your acceptance with Blue Cross Blue Shield in your particular state.
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